At Sunrise Trading, our belief in the extraordinary quality of our coffee is deeply connected to a single, essential element: water. In the high-elevation slopes of Oxapampa, Pasco, Peru, this water is the wisdom of the Andes, a pristine and life-giving force that influences every step of our coffee’s journey. The natural springs and crystal-clear streams descending from the peaks provide a profound foundation for both coffee growth and processing.

The Nourishing Stream: Cultivation and Vitality

The journey of water to our coffee farms begins high in the Andes. Rain and glacial meltwater filter through the mountain’s ancient, mineral-rich soil, emerging as pure springs that nourish our shade-grown plants. The coffee trees absorb this water, rich with a unique mineral composition, which directly contributes to the health of the plant and the slow, deliberate maturation of the coffee cherry. This process allows for the development of complex sugars and organic acids, which are the building blocks of exceptional flavor. It’s a clean and vital source of life, mirroring the natural harmony of the Oxapampa-Asháninka-Yánesha Biosphere Reserve (BIOAY) itself.

A Sacred Flower: The Cantuta's Legacy

The purity of our Andean springs provides life for our coffee, and it also supports other native flora. It is the home of the Cantua buxifolia, or Cantuta , the sacred flower of the Incas and the national flower of Peru. Its vibrant red and pink blossoms often flourish near these pristine water sources, a symbol of unity and the earth's beauty. In Inca legend, the flower grew from the very tears of a remorseful king, and its presence near the water is a constant reminder of the land’s enduring legacy and its connection to ancient wisdom. The Cantuta's bloom is a visual representation of the powerful life-force of these lands.

The Cleansing Ritual: Processing for Purity

The wisdom of this pristine water is fully realized during the processing of our coffee. In the washed process, clean water is a crucial element. We use the pure flow from the mountains to ferment the coffee, a step where the purity of the water directly influences the microbial activity that shapes the final flavor profile. Using clean water prevents the introduction of impurities, ensuring the resulting green coffee bean has a crisp, clear flavor and a vibrant acidity. This cleansing ritual allows the true character of the bean, born from the unique terroir, to shine without distraction. Even in our honey and natural processes, this clean water is used for the initial preparation of the coffee cherry before it begins its drying journey.

The Taste of Purity

For roasters, the wisdom of the Andean water translates directly to the cup. It’s a profound clarity that elevates the entire coffee experience. The vibrant acidity, clean sweetness, and absence of off-flavors are all direct results of this pure source. When you source coffee from Sunrise Trading, you acquire a piece of the pristine Andean environment, where nature’s elements work in perfect harmony to produce coffee of exceptional quality and purity. It’s the taste of the rainforest, purified and perfected by the timeless flow of mountain springs.